The Last Ship is based on the novel by William Brinkley and focuses on the crew of a naval destroyer in the aftermath of a global catastrophe.

Baldwin, 50, will now play the role of Mike Slattery, the second-in-command to Captain Tom Chandler, played by Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane. TNT may find another role for Titus Welliver if he becomes available again in the near future.

In addition to his Chuck role, Baldwin is known for appearing in 1987 film Full Metal Jacket and on Fox's short-lived sci-fi drama Firefly.

Rhona Mitra (Strike Back, Boston Legal) has also signed up for a role on The Last Ship's pilot, which is to be directed by Jonathan Mostow (Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines).